In a groundbreaking collaboration, Marvel Comics and Shogakukan are set to release a new manga series that brings together two iconic heroes: Ultraman and Spider-Man. Titled Ultraman: Along Came a Spider-Man, this series promises to be a thrilling adventure for fans of both franchises, marking a historic crossover event.
Announced during the ‘What’s New at VIZ’ panel at the recent San Diego Comic Con, the manga will feature the beloved wall-crawler teaming up with Japan’s legendary superhero. The storyline centers around a formidable alliance between Doctor Doom and the Alien Mefilas, presenting a unique challenge for Ultraman and Spider-Man. The narrative will also include cameo appearances from various Avengers, enhancing the crossover experience.
Written by Shigenobu Matsumoto and illustrated by Tomo Hirokawa, the series aims to explore the contrasting yet complementary approaches these heroes take in their fight against evil. Marvel Comics executive editor Tom Brevoort and Tsuburaya Fields Media & Pictures Entertainment’s transmedia producer Jeff Gomez will serve as creative consultants, ensuring that the essence of both universes is captured authentically.
Kei Minamitani from Tsuburaya Productions expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, “The contrast in how our two sets of heroes approach their roles is fascinating to see play out, but they have a lot of similarities as well. In both the Shogakukan and Marvel titles, we watch how our heroes grapple with these differences before ultimately reconciling to find greater solutions. It has been incredibly special to explore the concept of heroism through the perspectives of these two very different sets of heroes, and we are excited for fans to join them on these two adventures.”
C.B. Cebulski, the editor-in-chief of Marvel Comics, also shared his excitement, saying, “We’re thrilled to bring together Marvel comics and manga in such an exciting way, uniting our biggest heroes directly with Ultraman against ultimate villains like never before. This manga will be an epic showdown at a cosmic level, but it’ll have plenty of insightful themes and touching moments as well. We’re excited for fans to experience this story around the globe.”
The launch of Ultraman: Along Came a Spider-Man is strategically timed to coincide with the release of the Ultraman x Avengers four-issue comic series, which is being penned by Kyle Higgins and Mat Groom, with art by Francesco Manna. This simultaneous release underscores the growing synergy between Marvel and Japanese storytelling traditions.
Fans can look forward to accessing the new manga digitally through the VIZ Manga app, with new chapters set to be released every Tuesday. The first two chapters will debut on August 13 in the US and August 14 in Japan, coinciding with the launch of Ultraman x Avengers #1 from Marvel Comics.
As this unique partnership unfolds, it promises to deliver an engaging narrative that not only entertains but also delves into deeper themes of heroism and collaboration across cultures. The excitement surrounding this crossover is palpable, and fans are eager to see how these two worlds collide in what is sure to be a memorable series.
